The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that beginning today, Visa Waiver Program (VWP) applicants will be required to provide additional information when applying through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). With the additional data requirement, DHS expects to enhance its ability to accurately screen and identify potential security risks.
The additional questions are:
- Other Names/Aliases or Other Citizenships
- Parents name(s)
- National Identification Number (if applicable)
- Contact information (email, phone, points of contact)
- Employment information (if applicable)
- City of Birth
Also according to DHS, ESTA fees will not increase and that it does not anticipate any processing delays.
